Lenticular optical system

ABSTRACT

A lenticular optical system is described in which a composite image is viewable through a lens sheet from a first angle and an object or image placed at a preselected distance beneath the composite image is viewable from a second angle. Optical designs and alignment processes are disclosed which make possible the economical production of thin materials which facilitate the manufacturing and utilization of the optical system in packaging and the like.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a divisional of U.S. Appn. Ser. No. 08/375,405, filed Jan. 18,1995, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 5,642,226, issued Jun. 24, 1997.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to optical systems and moreparticularly to a lenticular optical system through which variouscomposite images can be viewed.

Lenticular lenses are well known for use in optical systems to producevarious types of unique optical effects. The known lenticular lenssystems generally include a transparent sheet having a plane surface onone side thereof and on the other side, a series of parallellongitudinal ridges creating a multi-lenticular system of convex lenses.A print sheet or medium is generally disposed at the back of the lensadjacent to or on the plain surface. The print sheet contains at leasttwo alternate series of spaced image lines, each series of image linesconstituting a dissection or breakup of a master picture. The two seriesof image lines are so optically related with respect to the lenselements as to be alternately visible upon positional changes of theviewer with respect to the lenses. When viewed from one position, thefirst series of image lines are visible so as to display the firstcomposite picture. When viewed from a second position, the second seriesof line are visible so as to display the second composite picture.

The same lenticular system can also be utilized to produce athree-dimensional picture effect. In forming such effects, the twoimages respectively constitute a right eye view of an object and a lefteye view of the same object in normal visual parallax. The lenticularlenses are placed to be along a line perpendicular to an imaginary linedrawn through the two pupils of the eyes of the viewer. In this manner,the convex lenses provide the desired optical effect to divert lightrays from the image lines making up the right eye elements of thepicture into the right eye of the viewer and, in the same way, the lefteye elements of the picture into left eye of the viewer, therebycreating the illusion of three-dimensional vision in the viewer's mind.

A major drawback of existing lenticular lens systems, such as thosedisclosed in my prior U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,541,727 and 4,034,555, is thefact that neither image can be placed at varying distances beneath thelens and be viewed successfully, nor is it possible to place athree-dimensional object beneath the lens sheet at varying distances andbe viewed. Thus, the applications of existing lenticular lens systemsare restricted. Such capability of placing an object or image beneaththe first composite image would greatly expand the applications to whichthe system could be used.

Another drawback of existing lenticular lens systems is the fact thatmaterials that are sufficiently thin enough for packaging and otherlarge-scale commercial uses cannot be made using the most economicalprinting technologies. In traditional lenticular lens material, thethickness is the same dimension as the focal length, which isapproximately three times the radius of curvature of the lens. With thelimits of quality consistent mass printing, in the order of being ableto print lenticular material in the order of 100 lenticules/inch, thelens material thickness is greater than 0.017 in. thick. In addition,where the object is to grab viewers'attention as they walk past, thetraditional lens materials change too quickly for use as our two-phasesystem of image to see-thru. The traditional materials change severaltimes with too short a view of each phase. Another drawback of the knowntechnique for fabricating lenticular lens is the inability toeconomically register the print lines to the lenses with the requiredcritical parallel alignment.

A significant commercial use for materials with a dynamic change inviews from an opaque picture view to a view of the interior contents isin packaging, and particularly the mass beverage and snack foodpackaging market. Surveys show that over 80 percent of consumers maketheir final purchasing decisions in the store. In beverage and snackfood marketing, with a crowded field of products, it is essential to"catch the eye" of the consumer. There is a current need for an improvedlenticular system in which a juxtaposition of advertising images andactual three-dimensional product within creates an enhanced visualattraction.

Lenticular optical system that create 3-D images and images which changewith changes in viewing position have been produced for many years byprinting pictures on sheets which are laminated to lenticular lenssheets. The lens sheets are injection molded, extruded, and embossed.The embossing has been typically done with a spiral engraving of thecylinder. This creates a skew of the emboss lines, which makes itextremely difficult to align the lenticular ridges parallel to the printlines. It is essential that the image lines be parallel to the ridgeslines for 3-D and even more critical for image-to-see-thru animationsystems. This parallel relationship must be maintained in order to keepthe `see-thru` slits open for a clear view of the objects beyond theplane of the lens sheet. If the lines and lens ridge are not mutuallyparallel, the image will not be capable of changing in a clearleft-right, or up-down animation. Instead, the image would change in theform of diagonal bands diminishing in size with further misalignment ofthe parallel.

It is a general object of the present invention to provide an improvedlenticular optical system and an improved process for fabricating such asystem.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a lenticular opticalsystem in which a composite image is viewable from one angle and anobject or image placed at a selected distance between the compositeimage is viewable from a second angle.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a lenticularoptical system which provides a first composite image which can beviewed through lenticular lenses wherein the first composite image isformed of a plurality of spaced apart parallel strips with transparentstripes therebetween.

Still a further object of the present invention is to provide alenticular optical system through which at least two composite picturescan be viewed and wherein an object will be viewed at a third angle.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a lenticular-typeoptical system which permits the placement of an object image at aplurality of preselected distances beneath a composite image for viewingat different angles.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an opticalsystem in which one composite picture may be viewed from one angle and athree-dimensional object may be viewed from another angle.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a lenticularoptical system which permits independent replacement of each compositeimage.

Another object of the invention is to provide optical systems whichpermit production of thin materials which are particularly useful forpackaging.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a multiplecontainer packaging having an area having a lenticular lens systempermitting the view of a first composite picture along one viewingdirection and a second composite image, the actual individual containerswithin the outer package at another viewing angle.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide an array ofpackages with lenticular image to see-thru portions which create acontinuum of moving images.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide containerlabels having an area of lenticular lens system permitting view of twoor more sets of information in a limited area, permitting the view ofcomposite graphic information from certain directions of view and thecontents of the containers from other viewing directions.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a process forfabricating a lenticular optical system in which the required accuratealignment for the quality control necessary for the economical printingof the large quantities needed for packaged goods and other commercialprinting is achieved.

Another object of the invention is to overcome the limitations anddisadvantages of prior lenticular optical systems.

According to one aspect of the concept of the present invention thenovel means employed to overcome the limitations of the prior artinclude an optical lens system comprising a transparent sheet having asurface on one side of the sheet and its opposite second surfaceconstituted by a plurality of parallel lenticular cylindrical lenses.The transparent sheet has a thickness in the range of between thedimension of the radius, and two times the radius. Herein it is anon-focusing lens, yet it functions adequately to view the lightreflected and refracted from the two phases of the image stripe, and theclear stripe, the `see-thru` view. In addition, at the same time, itovercomes the limitation of the thicker traditional focusing lens whichchanges view of the phases too rapidly. The focusing lens can fill thelens with stripes in the order of 1/100th of the image. In the presentinvention in the two phase image-to-see-thru system, we wish to seeapproximately half the image area at one time. In addition, to enhancethe `see-thru` view, the image stripes are printed thinner than theintervening clear `window` stripes.

According to one aspect of the present invention, an optical systemcomprises a transparent sheet having a plane surface at one side of thesheet and its opposite surface is constituted by a plurality of parallellenticular lenses. A first composite image is positioned with respect tothe plane surface of the transparent sheet. The first composite image isformed of a plurality of spaced apart parallel strips with transparentstrips therebetween. A second composite image can be positioned beneaththe first composite image.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the optical systemcomprises a transparent sheet having a plane surface at one side of thesheet and its opposite surface constituted by a plurality of parallellenticular-type lens ridges, each ridge including parallel convex lensand planer portions, the planar portions being disposed at a selectedangle with respect to the plane surface. A composite image portion ispositioned with respect to the plane surface of the transparent sheet.The composite image is formed of a plurality of spaced apart parallelstrip portions forming intervening void portions which permit thepassage of light therethrough from said planar portions. The compositeimage is viewable through the convex lens portions. An object image ispositioned beneath and spaced at a preselected distance from said firstsurface, the object image being viewable in focus through the planarportions.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the opticallens system comprises a transparent sheet having a first surface at oneside of the sheet and its opposite second surface constituted by aplurality of parallel lenticulated convex lenses. The first surface isconstituted by a plurality of spaced apart parallel planar portionshaving a composite image positioned thereupon with transparent concavelens portions therebetween which permit the passage of lighttherethrough. The convex lenses and the concave lenses combine to form acombined lens of zero power of magnification. An object image, eitherplanar or three-dimensional, is positioned beneath the sheet at apreselected distance, whereby the object image can be viewed through thetransparent concave lens portions without distortion.

According to yet another aspect of the optical lens system comprises atransparent sheet having a first surface at one side of the sheet andits opposite second surface constituted by a plurality of parallellenticulated truncated parabolic lens, the truncated surface beingparallel to the plane surface. A composite image is formed of aplurality of spaced apart parallel strip portions forming interveningvoid portions which permit the passage of light therethrough from saidplanar portions. The composite image is viewable at side views throughthe convex (parabolic) lens portions. From the left and right views thetruncated plane surfaces are blocked by the height of the lens ridges atthese angles. An object is positioned at a preselected distance fromsaid first surface, the object image being viewable in focus through theplanar truncated portions when viewed straight on.

In another aspect of the invention, the parabolic lens permits theutilization of a sheet approximately 1/3 the thickness of a standardradius lens deign with the same number of lens ridges/inch. This isessential in the utilization of commercially economical printingproduction, wherein the best equipment has the limitation of printinglenticular materials in the order of 100 lenticles per inch a maximum.The standard radius 100/inch lenticular would require a thickness ofapproximately 0.017 inch.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the optical lenssystem comprises a transparent sheet having a first surface at one sideof the sheet and its opposite second surface constituted by a pluralityof parallel, lenticulated fresnel cylindrical lenses. Said first surfaceis constituted by a plurality of spaced apart parallel planer portionshaving a composite image positioned thereupon with intervening voidportions.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the opposite secondsurface of the optical lens system may be constituted by a plurality ofparallel lenticulated diffractive cylindrical lenses. Said first surfaceis constituted by a plurality of spaced apart parallel planer portionshaving a composite image positioned thereupon with intervening voidportions.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the opticalsystem comprises a transparent sheet having a first surface at one sideof the sheet and its opposite second surface constituted by a pluralityof parallel lenticulated holographic optical element portions having thepower of cylindrical convex lenses. Said first surface is constituted bya plurality of spaced apart parallel planar portions having a compositeimage positioned thereupon with intervening void portions.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a printed filmsystem comprises a transparent film sheet having a first surface at oneside of the film sheet, the viewing side, printed with a plurality ofparallel spaced apart opaque lines, and its second surface constitutedby a plurality of parallel spaced apart image lines. The parallel imagelines form a composite image when viewed off angle from the verticle. Anobject positioned beneath and spaced at a preselected distance from saidsecond surface, is viewable in focus when viewed from the straight onviewing position in front of the first surface.

In another aspect of the invention, the lenticular lens is used as anarea of an outer package for a multi container package creatingalternate views of AD graphics and individual containers within.

In another aspect of the invention, the lenticular lens packages arecombined in an array to form multiple visual images.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the novel means toovercome the limitation of traditional container labels includesproducing a thin printed lenticular film, and gluing on, laminating anotherwise affixing the film to the container. The lenticulation can bepre-embossed on the film, embossed during mold bottle manufacture, orembossed by label affixing machinery.

Another aspect involves an animation from an opaque pictorial view atone angle of view, to a change to a `see-thru` to the contents of thecontainer at another angle of view, utilizing a transparent attachmentmaterial. Other aspects involve non `see-thru` animation images and 3-Dimages.

Another aspect of the present invention involves adjusting the printline graphics to the curved surface of many containers. To accomplishthis, the image lines must be compressed in the axis perpendicular tothe lines, so that the image will change as a whole as the viewer passesthe container. If this adjustment were not incorporated into theproduction, the viewer would see only verticle bands of the image,rather than the whole image.

According to another aspect of the present invention, improved accuracyin alignment is achieved by a process in which the lenticular ridges areimpressed into the film with a rotary tool, the grooves of which areperpendicular to the axis of the cylinder and have been preciselyindexed after engraving each increment and each groove is identical andequidistant from the previous groove. The tool can be used in a multiplegroup engraving tool, or a singular engraver. In the second step of theprocess the film is cut at right angles to the coherent axis of theembossing cylinder and parallel to the parallel embossed ridges. Thecutting is done in close proximity to the embossing or the unwind of apreembossed film roll, for greater accuracy. This cutting creates a cutparallel to the lenticular ridge pattern.

The print indicia lines are thus aligned with the lens material: Theparallel line indicia must be aligned squarely with the print cylindersand edge guides. The film with its parallel lens ridges and mutuallyparallel edge are guided squarely into the printing presses and line upwith the parallel line indicia, parallel with the film. This can beaccomplished due to the mutually parallel edges.

In the case of web printing processes, the film web is guided into thepress with the ridges at right angles to the cylinders. For sheetprinting, the lens film first must be cut at right angles to createsheets. It is preferable to feed the sheets into the sheet presses withthe lens ridges parallel to the print cylinders. Print lines aremutually parallel on the print cylinders, producing print lines on thesheets parallel to the edge and to the ridge lines.

To further achieve the desired parallel alignment, an additional stepcan be incorporated into the process in which embossed film is guidedinto the printing and laminating processes by devices producing sensoryresponses to the differential of parallel ridges, valleys, and edges.These devices may include optical, ultrasonic, laser and otherdifferential sensory response devices.

According to another aspect of the process of the present invention, theprinting step can be initiated first, with subsequent combining with theembossed optical ridges. First, parallel line indicia are printed on aweb of film with print indicia lines parallel with the longitudinaldirection of the web and with the register marks in the margins of thefilm. Next, the film with the parallel print lines is guided withoptical sensors which read the parallel lines and/or the registrationmarks, in order to align the print lines straight into the apparatuswhich will add the parallel embossed lenticular lens grid. The embossingunits have a cylinder with indexed annular grooves. Forming the embossedridges can be accomplished by various methods. In one method, theembossing roller is warm enough to overcome the elastic memory of thefilm and to set the new lenticular surface into the film. Another methodinvolves heating the film with a first warm roller or infra-redradiation or other heating methods, and while warm, embossing with acool embossing roller which acts as a heat sink and sets in the grooves.Another method involves casting a polymer onto the embossing cylinder byexposing the polymer to uv, eb or other antic radiation as it is coatedonto the film web, setting up the lenticular ridges. This can be castonto the printed web or a second web which is laminated to the printedweb.

According to another aspect of the process of the current invention, theprocess for producing a lenticular lens material having parallel lens toprint alignment is produced by silkscreen printing lines of clear resin.The lines of resin can be printed as parallel ridges beads whichnaturally form a slope creating the convex lenticular bar-lens ridges.The lines of resin are delineated by minimal line spaces between thelines. However, as they are printed the lines flow slightly wider,thereby reducing the gap between the grid of adjacent resin lines suchthat the lens line curves nearly intersect. The silkscreen process canlay down a height of resin commensurate with lenticular ridges (as muchas 0.003 in). The ridges can be set with uv and other methods. Anotherstep in alignment involves printing parallel line indicia on the reverseside of the film web in a perfecter mode if the printing is in line,thereby assuring mutual parallel alignment of the line indicia to thesilkscreened ridges. The two steps of the process can also beaccomplished in reverse order. The printing may be on the same side ofthe film, with a flood coat of resin cured over the print first, afterwhich the lens ridges are screen printed. The print lines may be printedby letterpress, offset, gravure, or the like, while the lens ridges aresilkscreened.

According to another aspect of the process of the present invention, theprocess for producing a lenticular lens material having parallel lens toprint alignment is produced by printing clear varnish ink repellentstripes. Said clear stripes are printed parallel to the emboss ridges onthe opposite side of the film. The repellent properties of these lowenergy stripes make it possible to start with a continuous image on aprinting plate or equivalent origination, and only have alternatinglines of print adhere to the substrate, said adhering linescorresponding to the spaces between the previously printed clear varnishlines.

According to another aspect of the process of the present invention, theprocess for producing a lenticular lens material having parallel lens toprint alignment is produced by printing thick lines of clear varnish.Said varnish lines create a differential height from the adjacentunprinted alternating stripes. Thereafter, a continuous full image on aprinting plate or equivalent origination can be adjusted to transfer inkonly to the raised stripes, therein leaving said alternating stripes,which are devoid of the thick varnish.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

My invention will be more clearly understood from the followingdescription of specific embodiments of the invention, consideredtogether with the accompanying drawings, wherein similar referencecharacters denote similar elements throughout the several views and inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles on whichthe prior art `opaque` devices operate;

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles of`image-see-thru` prior art utilizing conventional `arc of circle` radiuslenticles;

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha first embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha second embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 5 is a three dimensional view of the elements constituting the lenssystem in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha third embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 7 is a three-dimensional view of the elements constituting the lenssystem in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha fourth embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional view of the elements constituting the lenssystem shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha fifth embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 11 is a three-dimensional view of the elements constituting thelens system in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha sixth embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha seventh embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 14 is a three-dimensional view of the elements constituting thelens system shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha eighth embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic view showing the optical principles upon whicha ninth embodiment of the present invention operates;

FIG. 17 is a three-dimensional view of the elements constituting thelens system in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18A and 18B show perspective views of a multi-beverage packagehaving an area of lenticular lens;

FIG. 19A and 19B show perspective views of an array of multiple beveragepackages;

FIG. 20A shows a three-dimensional view of a container with a lenticulararea; and FIG. 20B shows a cross-section of container wall withlenticular area.

FIG. 21 is a three-dimensional view showing a process in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic view showing a process for creating anenclosed lenticular film in accordance with the process of the presentinvention;

FIG. 23 is a three-dimensional view showing a process of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 24 and 25 are diagrammatic cross-sectional views showing a processin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view showing a process of thepresent invention; and

FIG. 27 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view showing process of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a diagrammatic view of a prior artlenticular device, which incudes a lenticular screen 10 having a planesurface 12 on one side thereof. Screen 10 includes on its other side acontinuous series of ridges 14 which form the lens patterns. Beneath thelenticular screen is a sheet 16 which contains two alternate series ofspaced image lines 18, 20. The image lines 18 constitute a dissection ofa first master picture, whereas the image lines 20 constitute thedissection of a second master picture. The two series of image lines areoptically arranged so as to be alternately visible upon positionalchange of the viewer with respect to the screen.

By viewing the arrangement shown in FIG. 1 from position A, the lines ofsight 9 are directed to the lenticular screen at any angle such thatthey are refracted toward the image lines 18 so that in effect acoherent and comprehensive image of the first master picture will beviewed by the viewer's eye. If the viewing position were moved toposition B, then the lines of sight 11 would strike the curved faces 14at such an angle that only the picture elements 20 are visible and acomposite and comprehensive picture of the second master picture wouldbe viewable by the viewer's eye.

In the prior art device of FIG. 1, both picture elements are alternatelyplaced in series of spaced image lines along a single sheet 16 lying ina single plane beneath the lens system. As a result, if one would wantto change one of the composite pictures 18, it would be necessary toreplace the entire sheet 16, which would also necessitate replacing thepicture elements 20. The second image sheet 24 that contains the secondcomposite image, as shown in FIG. 2, need not be formed into a pluralityof spaced apart parallel strips as a dissection of the compositepicture, but rather may include a continuum of the second compositeimage. An apparent image of the entire composite picture will beviewable through the transparent strips 26 located in the first imagesheet 22.

FIG. 3A illustrates another prior art lenticular system in which, atransparent sheet 30 includes a first surface 31, on one side of thesheet and its opposite second surface constituted by a plurality ofparallel lenticular lens 32. The first surface is constituted by aplurality of image lines making up either a multi-phase animation, ormultiple left-right eye views for 3 dimensional images. The transparentsheet 30, is equal in thickness to the focal length of the lens, whichis approximately 3 times the radius of the lens.

FIG. 3B illustrates a transparent sheet 33, having a first surface 34,on one side of the sheet and its opposite second surface constituted bya plurality of parallel lenticular ridges 35. The first surface isconstituted by a plurality of spaced apart parallel image stripsportions 36, positioned thereupon forming a composite image. Formedbetween portions 36 are intervening void portions 37. The transparentsheet 33, has a thickness in the range of between the dimension of theradius, and two times the dimension of the radius.

The word "image" is used wherein and in the claims hereinbelow isdefined to mean a picture, design, writing, indicia, or information,printed by a printing press or made by an artist, or writer, or made bya photographic process or by any other means. The reference herein to"voids" or "transparent strips" expressly contemplates provision ofvoids as well as a transparent medium.

Alternatively, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changes. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

An embodiment of the present invention which allows the viewer to view acomposite image at one angle of sight and to view an object positionedbeyond the composite image at a second angle of sight is illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 5. With reference to FIG. 4, a transparent sheet 40 includesa first surface 41 on one side of the sheet and its opposite secondsurface constituted by a plurality of parallel lenticular parabolicconvex lenses 42. First surface 41 is constituted by a plurality ofspaced apart parallel image strips 43 positioned thereupon forming acomposite image. Formed between portions 43 are intervening voidportions 44. As shown in FIG. 4, lines of sight 45 from viewing positionA are directed to the convex lens portions 42 at such an angle that theyare refracted toward parallel image strip portions 43, whereupon aviewer at position A can see the composite image; that is the pictureelements 43 will form a composite and comprehensive picture of thecomposite image in the viewer's eye. When viewed from position B, thelines of sight 46 will reach the lens at an angle whereby they will bedeflected toward the transparent strips 44 through which the viewer willbe able to see an object image as an apparent entire composite andcomprehensive picture. The object image needs to be in close proximityto surface 41 in order for the object image viewed to be in clear focus.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

FIG. 5 shows a three-dimensional view of the optical system of theembodiment of FIG. 4 with the transparent sheet 40, parallel parabolicconvex lens 42, and first surface 41 having parallel composite imagestrip portions 43, and intervening void portions 44. Image 74 is shownat preselected distance X from the first surface 41, on image plane 47which, for the purposes of exposition, is approximately parallel tofirst surface 41, that is, to image strip portions 43.

With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 4, it is noted that theparabolic shape of the lenses 42 permits the creation of thin filmlenticulated materials wherein the same pitch or number of lenticulesper inch can be formed as in much thicker prior art of circle lenticulardesigns. The same dimension print lines can be achieved in the presentinvention with the use of significantly thinner material. This issignificant in that cost-effective production is significantly improvedwith the use of thinner materials. The use of thinner materials isdirectly related to the limits of commercial printing wherein the linethickness of approximately 0.005 inch registered with multiple colorpasses would be the finest that is efficiently printable. With theconventional radius designs, a material thickness of approximately 0.018inch would be required. It is necessary to achieve the thinner materialenabled by the present invention in order to make product available forthe broad commercial areas of packaging and publishing, wherein majorcost reductions, more available attachment methods for thinnermaterials, and overall reduction of material used are essential. Thisembodiment is also applicable for three-dimensional pictures.

Another aspect of the present invention which allows the viewer to viewa composite image at one angle of sight and to view an object positionedbeyond the composite image at a second angle of sight is illustrated inthe embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

In the diagrammatic view of the invention at FIG. 6, images are viewedthrough a transparent lenticular-type screen, or sheet, 60 having aplane surface 62 at one side of the sheet and its opposite surfaceconstituted by a plurality of lenticular-type parallel ridges 61. Eachridge includes a convex lens portion 64 and a planar portion 66, theportions 64 and 66 being parallel to one another. Planar portions 66 areat a preselected angle with respect to plane surface 62 for a purposedescribed below.

A composite image is positioned on surface 62 of sheet 60, the imagebeing formed of a plurality of spaced apart parallel image stripportions 68. Formed between portions 68 are intervening void portions70. As shown on FIG. 6, lines of sight 72 from viewing portion A aredirected to the convex lens portions 64 at such an angle that they arerefracted toward parallel image strip portions 68, whereupon a viewer atposition A can see the composite image. That is, the picture elements 68form a composite and comprehensive picture of the composite image in theviewer's eye.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

Referring to FIG. 6, an image, which may be a three-dimensional objector a substantially flat image, referred to here as an object image 74,is positioned directly beneath and at a preselected distance from planesurface 62. The preselected angle at which planar lens portion 66 isdisposed causes the light rays of line of sight 76 from viewing positionB to strike plane surface 62 and to refract preferably perpendicular, ornormal to surface 62 and to enter sheet 60 directly without refractionand so to continue directly to void portion 70 at which plane it isrefracted at an angle that directs the light rays directly downwards toobject image 74. Thus the viewer can, by selecting either viewingposition A or B alternately view the composite image or image stripportions 68 or the object image 74. Object image 74 can, as noted above,be three-dimensional or two-dimensional. In addition, it can be disposedat any of a plurality of preselected distances, shown, for purposes ofexposition, at distance X and at distance Y from surface 62, labeledimages 74 and 74' respectively on image planes 77 and 78. In order thatthe viewer be able to see image 74, planar surface 66 must be disposedat such an angle to surface 62 that the light rays exit from voidportions 70 normal to the surface of portions 70.

FIG. 7 illustrates a three-dimensional view of the optical systemshowing transparent sheet 60 with parallel planar portions 66 and convexlens portions 64 or parallel ridges 61 and parallel image strip portions68 and intervening void portions 70 with object images 74 and 74'disposed at preselected distances x and y from plane surface 62. Object74 is shown disposed on a plane 77 and object 74' is shown on a plane 78for purposes of exposition.

With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 6 it is noted that since thereis no lens or curvature involved at either planar portions 66 or planesurface 62 at void portions 70, there will be no distortion of the imageand the image will, in addition, be in focus. Because of the presenteffect, however, object 74 will appear to the viewer at position B to beat a different location than in fact it is; that is, there will be ashift in the object's apparent position.

Another aspect of the present invention which allows the viewer to viewa composite image at one angle of sight and to view an object positionedbeyond the composite image at a second angle of sight is illustrated inthe embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, a transparentsheet 80 includes a first surface 82 on one side and its opposite secondsurface is constituted by a plurality of parallel lenticulated convexlenses 84. First surface 82 is constituted by a plurality of spacedapart parallel planar portions 86 having parallel composite image stripportions 88 positioned thereupon forming a composite image. Transparentconcave lens portions 90 are disposed between the parallel imageportions 88. Light from the convex lenses 84 can pass through concavelenses portions 90. Convex lenses 84 and concave lens portions 90together combine to form a single combined lens of zero power.

As shown in FIG. 8, lines of sight 92 are directed to convex lensportions 84 at such an angle that they are refracted toward parallelimage strip portions 88, whereupon a viewer at position A can see thecomposite image, that is, picture elements 88 will form a composite andcomprehensive picture of the composite image in the viewer's eye.

Referring to FIG. 8, either a three-dimensional or substantially flatimage, referred to here as object image 74, is positioned directlybeneath and at a preselected distance from first surface 82. When theviewer is positioned at viewing position B, lines of sight 94 aredirected at convex lenses 84 which are then refracted toward transparentconcave lens portions 90 from where they exit at a refracted angle tocontinue to object 74. Thus, object 74 can be viewed from position Bwithout distortion. Object 74 can be disposed at a plurality ofpreselected positions beneath surface 82, and, for purposes ofexposition, object 74 is shown at an x distance and also at a ydistance, where it is characterized as 74'.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

FIG. 9 shows a three-dimensional view of the optical system of theembodiment of FIG. 8 that includes a transparent sheet 80, parallelconvex lenses 84, and first surface 82 having parallel planar portions86 with composite image strip portions 88 and intervening concave lensportions 90. Image 74 is shown at preselected distance x from firstsurface 82 and image 74' at preselected distance y on image planes 96and 98, respectively, each plane being, for purposes of exposition,approximately parallel to first surface 82, that is, to image stripportions 88.

In the embodiment of FIG. 9, the structure of surface 82 with indentedconcave lens portions 90, and protruding alternating strip portions 88makes it possible for an inking system to transfer ink to strip portions88, automatically registering the ink to these raised strips and nottransferring ink to the indented concave lens portions 90, thereby toproduce the required result of registered parallel print lines andalternating unprinted spaces from a standard continuous image on theprint plate. The surface 82 thus registers the ink in the necessary linestrips.

Yet another aspect of the present invention which allows the viewer toview a composite image at one angle of sight and to view an objectpositioned beyond the composite image at a second angle of sight isillustrated in the embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11.

With reference to FIG. 10, a transparent sheet 100 is illustrated havinga first surface 102 on one side of the sheet and its opposite secondsurface is constituted by a plurality of parallel lenticular truncatedparabolic convex ridges 101. Each ridge includes a convex lens portion104 and a planar portion 106, the portions 104 and 106 being parallel toone another. First surface 102 is constituted by a plurality of spacedapart parallel image strips 108 positioned thereupon forming a compositeimage. Formed between portions 108 are intervening void portions 110. Asshown in FIG. 10, lines of sight 112 from viewing position A aredirected to the convex lens portions 104 at such an angle that they arerefracted toward parallel image strip portions 108, whereupon a viewerat position A can see the composite image. That is, the picture elements108 will form a composite and comprehensive picture of the compositeimage in the viewer's eye. When viewed from position B, the lines ofsight 114 will reach the lens at an angle whereby they will be deflectedtoward the transparent strips 110 through which the viewer will be ableto see an object image 74 as an apparent entire composite andcomprehensive picture.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

FIG. 11 shows a three-dimensional view of the optical system of theembodiment of FIG. 10 described with the transparent sheet 100, paralleltruncated parabolic convex lenses 101, and first surface 102 havingparallel composite image strip portions 108, and intervening voidportions 110. Image 74 is shown at preselected distance x from firstsurface 102, on image plane 116, and image 74' is shown at preselecteddistance y on image plane 118, each plane being, for the purposes ofexposition, approximately parallel to first surface 102, that is, toimage strip portions 108.

Referring to FIG. 11, an image, which may be a three-dimensional objector a substantially flat image, referred to here as an object image 74,is positioned directly beneath and at a preselected distance from planesurface 102. Truncated planar portion 106 is parallel to the planesurface 102, whereby the light rays of line of sight 114 from viewingposition B enter sheet 100 directly without refraction and so continuedirectly through void portion 110 and on directly downward to objectimage 74. Thus the viewer can, by selecting either viewing position A orB, alternately view the composite image of image strip portions 108 orthe object 74. In addition, it can be disposed at any of a plurality ofpreselected distance, shown, for purposes of exposition, at distance xand at distance y from surface 102, labeled 74 and 74' respectively.Since there is no lens curvature involved at either planar portions 106or plane surface 102 at void portions 110, there will be no distortionof the image and the image will, in addition, be in focus.

With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 10, the parabolic shape of thelenses 104 permit the creation of thin film lenticulated materialswherein the same pitch or number of lenticules per inch can be formed asin much thicker designs using an arc of circle radius. The samedimension print lines can thus be achieved which significantly improvescost effective production.

Yet another aspect of the present invention which allows the viewer toview a composite image at one angle of sight and view an objectpositioned beyond the composite image at a second angle of sight isillustrated in FIG. 12.

With reference to FIG. 12, a transparent sheet 121 is illustrated havinga first surface 123 on one side of the sheet and its opposite secondsurface constituted by a plurality of parallel holographic opticalelement portions, 122, having the power of convex cylindrical lenses,127, the portions 122 being parallel to one another with brag planes126. First surface 123 is constituted by a plurality of spaced apartparallel image strips 124 positioned thereupon forming a compositeimage. Formed between portions are intervening void portions 125. Asshown in FIG. 12, lines of sight 129 form viewing position A aredirected to the holographic optical element lens portions 122 at such anangle that they are directed towards parallel image strip portions 124,whereupon a viewer at position A can see the composite image; that isthe picture elements 124 will form a composite and comprehensive pictureof the composite image in the viewer's eye. When viewed from position B,the lines of sight 128 will reach the lens at an angle whereby they willbe deflected towards the transparent strips 125 through which the viewerwill be able to see an object 74 as an apparent entire composite andcomprehensive picture.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the holographic optical element type oflenses permits the creation of thin film lenticulated materials whereinthe same pitch or number of lenticles per inch can be formed as in muchthicker designs using conventional lenses. As in previously describedembodiment, the same dimension print lines can be achieved onsignificantly thinner material.

In addition, the system can be used to view opaque animating images orleft-right eye view three-dimensional pictures by substituting printedindicia in the place of the intervening void portions 125 on plane 123.

Yet another aspect of the present invention which allows the viewer toview a composite image at one angle of sight and to view an objectpositioned beyond the composite image at a second angle of sight isillustrated in the embodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14.

With reference to FIG. 13, a transparent sheet 140 includes a firstsurface 142 on one side and its opposite second surface is constitutedby a plurality of parallel lenticulated cylindrical fresnel convexlenses 144. Each ridge is composed of a symmetrical groove facets 146which are parallel to one another. First surface 142 is constituted by aplurality of spaced apart parallel image strips 148 positioned thereuponforming a composite image. Intervening void portions 150 are formedbetween portions 148. As shown in FIG. 12, lines of sight 152 fromviewing position A are directed to the fresnel convex lens portions 144at such an angle that they are refracted toward parallel image stripportions 148, whereupon a viewer at position A can see the compositeimage; that is the picture elements 148 will form a composite andcomprehensive picture of the composite image in the viewer's eye. Whenviewed from position B, the lines of sight 154 will reach the lens at anangle whereby they will be deflected toward the transparent strips 150through which the viewer will be able to see an object image 74 as anapparent entire composite and comprehensive picture.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

FIG. 14 is a three-dimensional view of the optical system of theembodiment described with the transparent sheet 140, parallellenticulated fresnel cylindrical convex lenses 144, and first surface142 having parallel composite image strip portions 148, and interveningvoid portions 150. Image 74 is shown at preselected distance x fromfirst surface 142, on image plane 156. This plane is, for purposes ofexposition, shown approximately parallel to first surface 142, that is,to image strip portions 148.

Referring to FIG. 14, an image, which may be a three-dimensional objector a substantially flat image, referred to here as an object image 74,is positioned directly beneath and at a preselected distance from planesurface 142. The viewer can, by selecting either viewing position A orB, alternately view the composite image of image strip portions 148 orthe object 74.

With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 13, it is noted that thefresnel type of lenses 144 permits the creation of thin filmlenticulated materials wherein the same pitch or number of lenticulesper inch can be formed as in much thicker designs using conventionalconvex lenses 158, so that the same dimension print lines can beachieved with significantly thinner material.

In addition, the system can be used to view opaque animating images ofleft-right eye view three-dimensional pictures by substituting printedindicia in the place of the intervening void portions 150, on plane 142.

Yet another aspect of the present invention which allows the viewer toview a composite image at one angle of sight and to view an objectpositioned beyond the composite image at a second angle of sight isillustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 15.

With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 15, a transparent sheet 159includes a first surface 160 on one side and its opposite second surfaceis constituted by a plurality of parallel diffractive lenses 161 havingthe power of convex cylindrical lenses. Each lens is composed ofsymmetrical step facets 162 the portions being parallel to one another.First surface 160 is constituted by a plurality of spaced apart parallelimage strips 164 or portions positioned thereupon forming a compositeimage. Intervening void portions 165 are formed between these portions.As shown in FIG. 15, lines of sight 166 viewing position A are directedto the diffractive lens portions 161 at such an angle that they arediffracted toward parallel image strip portions 164, whereupon a viewerat position A can see the composite image; that is, the picture elementsor image portions 164 will form a composite and comprehensive picture ofthe composite image in the viewer's eye. When viewed from position B,the lines of sight 167 will reach the lens at an angle whereby they willbe deflected toward the transparent strips 163 through which the viewerwill be able to see an object 74 as an apparent entire composite andcomprehensive picture.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this lenticular lens system. For example, one image or objectcan be held in a static viewing position in a viewing device, whileother images or objects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewedin conjunction with objects and/or projected images.

In addition, the system can be used to view opaque animating images orleft-right eye view three-dimensional pictures by substituting printedindicia in the place of the intervening void portions 165, on plane 160.

In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the diffractive type of lenses permits thecreation of thin film lenticulated materials wherein the same pitch ornumber of lenticles per inch can be formed as in much thicker designsusing conventional lenses. As in previously described embodiments, thesame dimension print lines can be achieved on significantly thinnermaterial.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention which allows the viewerto view a composite image at one angle of sight and to view an objectpositioned beyond the composite image at a second angle of sight isillustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17.

With reference to FIG. 16, a transparent sheet 170 includes a firstsurface 171 on one side and its opposite second surface constituted by aplurality of parallel spaced apart solid opaque lines 172. Formedbetween portions 172 are intervening void portions 173. First surface isconstituted by a plurality of spaced apart parallel image strips 174positioned thereupon and positioned directly opposite in the verticleplane from the solid lines on the second surface. These image stripsform a composite image. Formed between portions 174 are intervening voidportions 175. As shown in FIG. 16, lines of sight 176 from viewingposition A are directed at a 90° angle to transparent sheet 170 andthrough intervening void portions 173 and intervening void portions 175,whereupon a viewer at position A can see the composite view of objectimage 74 as an apparent entire composite and comprehensive picture. Whenviewed from position B, the lines of sight 177 are directed through theintervening void portions 173 toward parallel image strip portions 174,whereupon a viewer at position B can see the composite image; that is,the picture elements 174 will form a composite and comprehensive pictureof the composite image in the viewer's eye.

Alternately, the image strip portions can be printed on removablescreens containing the respective composite images, projected on saidfirst surface, or removed entirely. This flexibility enables thealternate viewing of changeable indicia. This can enhance the capabilityof visual displays and viewing systems. The viewer can therein compare,juxtapose, and interpolate various images and objects by viewing themthrough this system. For example, one image or object can be held in astatic viewing position in a viewing device, while other images orobjects are changed. Also, printed images can be viewed in conjunctionwith objects and/or projected images.

FIG. 17 shows a three-dimensional view of the optical system of theembodiment described with the transparent sheet 170, parallel solidopaque lines 172 and intervening void portions and first surface 171having parallel composite image strip portions 174, and intervening voidportions. Image 175 is shown at preselected distance x from firstsurface 171, on image plane 178. This plane is, for purposes ofexposition, shown approximately parallel to first surface 171, that is,to image strip portions.

Referring to FIG. 17, an image, which may be a three-dimensional objector a substantially flat image, referred to here as an object image 74,is positioned directly beneath and at a preselected distance from planesurface 171. The viewer can by selecting either viewing position A or Balternately view the composite image of image strip portions 174 or theobject 74.

In the embodiment of FIG. 18, a multi-container package is shown whichincludes a back, two sides, top, and bottom solid walls, and a frontwall 179, with a window opening 180 and individual containers inside.The window contains a transparent sheet 182 having an outer surfaceconstituted by a plurality of lenticular lenses, whereby when viewed ina first position, a picture 183 is seen as shown in FIG. 18A. Whenviewed from a slightly different angle, the containers 181 inside thepackage are seen, as shown in FIG. 18B. The window area shown is anexemplary package; other packages can be formed with lesser or greaterareas of lenticular sheet, even the entire package.

FIG. 19 illustrates an array of multi-container packages 184 withlenticular window areas 185, which, when viewed in a first positionprovide a multiple composite view of pictures as seen in FIG. 19A. Whenviewed from a slightly different angle, the containers inside thepackage are seen, as shown in FIG. 19B. The pictures can be multipleimages of the same picture, or different images, or partial views of onepicture. These window areas shown are exemplary packages; other packagescan be formed with lesser or greater areas of lenticular sheet, even theentire packages.

Another embodiment of the present invention, which allows the viewer tosee alternating and three-dimensional formation on containers, isillustrated in FIG. 20. FIG. 20A illustrates a container which includesa lenticular area 186, on the container surface. As shown in the crosssection in FIG. 20B, the area consists of a transparent sheet 187,constituted by a plurality of lenticular lenses 181 on its outer surfacewith parallel print line indicia 189 on the side opposite the lensridges 188, the side of the film facing into the container 190. Inprinting the parallel image indicia 189 on a curved surface, the linesmust be compressed in the axis perpendicular to the lines, compared tothe original line grid designed to be printed on a lenticular film whichwould remain flat. The image will change as a whole as the viewer passesthe container, rather than `banding` of the image. Conversely, byprinting vertical color lines in a configuration for a flat planersurface alignment and then mounting these on a curved clear containerthe print lines will create a visual illusionary effect of bending intothe bottle.

FIG. 21 illustrates a method for creating embossed lenticular film withparallel alignment. The annular cylinder 191 with its indexed grooves193 embosses or casts lenticular ridges 194 onto the film 192, eachridge being at right angles to the axis of the embossing cylinder 191.Next, a cutting device such as a knife mechanism 195 is set to cut theembossed film at right angles to the axis of the embossing cylinder andin critical parallel alignment to the embossed ridges on the film, 192.A mechanical edge guide or sensory edge guiding device 196 positions theembossed film to feed the film into printing presses squarely. A sensorydevice could be connected with servo motors to make necessarycorrections to keep the film in a straight path alignment. Printcylinders 197 are set squarely with the edge guidance to assure parallelregister of the subsequent print lines 198 to the parallel emboss of thefilm. As shown in FIG. 22, the web 199 is cut at right angles with aknife or other cutting device 200 forming sheets 201. The sheets arealigned into the press by edge guide 202 and gripper bar 203.

FIG. 23 illustrates the method for creating embossed lenticular filmwith parallel print alignment. The film web 204 is first printed withparallel line indicia 205 and with registration marks 206. Optical (orother sensory devices) 207 read the parallel line pattern 205 and/or theregistration marks 206 guide the print lines straight into the embosserwith its edge guide 208 and embossing cylinder 209 with its annularparallel grooves 210, thereby producing parallel embossed lenticularridges which are mutually parallel to the print line indicia.

FIG. 24 illustrates a method for creating lenticular film with parallelprint alignment. The film web 211 is first printed with parallel linesof clear resin 212. The resin forms curved ridges. Parallel line indicia213 are printed on the reverse side of the film in a perfecter printingmode to produce print lines which are parallel to the printed resinlenticular ridges on the other side of the film.

FIG. 25 illustrates the method for creating lenticular film withparallel print alignment. As therein shown, the film web 214 is firstprinted with parallel line indicia 215. A flood coat 216 is spread overthe printed surface and cured. Parallel lines of clear resin 217 areprinted on top of the flood coat layer 216 in parallel register with theprint lines below.

FIG. 26 illustrates a method for creating lenticular film with parallelprint alignment. The lenticular film 220 is first printed with parallellines of clear varnish 221, mutually parallel to lenticular ridges 222on the reverse side of the film 220. The varnish lines 221 haverepellent properties wherein subsequent print image adheres only to theadjacent alternating unvarnished stripes 223.

FIG. 27 illustrates a method for creating a lenticular film withparallel print alignment. The lenticular film 225 is first printed withthick parallel lines of varnish 226 by silkscreen or other methodsmutually parallel to the lens ridges 227 on the reverse side of thefilm. The varnish lines 226 form raised planar portions, with adjacentintervening stripes 228 which are devoid of the varnish. When printed,the lines of varnish 226 register ink 229 to themselves and preventtransfer of ink to alternating stripes 228.

The embodiments of the invention particularly disclosed and describedherein are presented merely as examples of the invention. Otherembodiments, forms and modifications of the invention coming within theproper scope and spirit of the appended claims will, of course, readilysuggest themselves to those skilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. An optical system comprising a transparent sheethaving a planar surface and an opposite surface constituted by aplurality of parallel ridges, each ridge including parallel convex lensand planar portions, said planar portions being disposed at an anglewith respect to said plane surface,a composite image portion positionedwith respect to the planar surface of the transparent sheet, saidcomposite image being formed of a plurality of spaced apart parallelstrip portions forming intervening void portions which permit thepassage of light therethrough from said planar portions, said compositeimage being viewable through said convex lens portions, and an objectimage positioned beneath and spaced at a preselected distance from saidfirst surface is viewable in focus through said planar portions.
 2. Theoptical system according to claim 1, wherein said composite image onsaid first surface is independently replaceable.
 3. An optical lenssystem comprising a transparent sheet having a first surface at one sideand an opposite surface constituted by a plurality of parallellenticulated truncated conic lens portions, said truncation creatingflat surfaces parallel to said first surface,said first surface beingconstituted by a plurality of spaced apart parallel planar portionshaving a composite image positioned thereupon with transparentintervening void portions which permit the passage of light therethroughfrom said planar truncated portions of the lenses, said composite imagebeing viewable through conic lens portions, whereby the image of anobject positioned beneath and spaced at a preselected distance from saidfirst surface is viewable in focus through said planar portions.
 4. Theoptical system according to claim 3, wherein said composite image onsaid first surface is independently replaceable.